Microprocessor & Assembly Language Programming O PITIA
Microprocessor & Assembly Language Programming O PITIA
Microprocessor & Assembly Language Programming O PITIA
(MCA)
Self-Learning Material
(SEM II)
Microprocessors have revolutionized the way we design and interact with digital systems.
From process control to consumer electronics, microprocessors are ubiquitous and play a
crucial role in shaping the modern world. This book aims to provide a comprehensive
introduction to the fundamental concepts and principles of microprocessors, covering their
architecture, programming, and applications.
The book is designed to cater to the needs of students, engineers, and professionals who want
to gain a deep understanding of microprocessors. It covers the basics of microprocessor
architecture, including the Intel 8085 and 8086 microprocessors and the 8051
microcontroller.
The text is organized in a clear and concise manner, making it easy for readers to follow and
understand the concepts. The book includes detailed explanations of microprocessor
programming, including assembly language and high-level programming languages. It also
covers various aspects of microprocessor interfacing, such as memory and I/O devices, and
provides practical examples and exercises to help readers master the skills.
Throughout the book, we emphasize the importance of understanding the hardware and
software aspects of microprocessors. We explore the different types of microprocessors,
including RISC and CISC architectures, and discuss their advantages and limitations. We also
examine the role of microprocessors in modern computing, including their use in embedded
systems, mobile devices, and cloud computing.
This book is intended to serve as a comprehensive resource for anyone looking to gain a solid
understanding of microprocessors. Whether you are a student, an engineer, or a professional,
this book will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to design, develop, and
maintain digital systems that rely on microprocessors.
Table of Contents
1 Introduction to Microprocessors 1- 8
2 Microprocessor Architecture 9 - 13
The invention of the microprocessor marked a revolutionary moment in computer science and
electronics. The first commercially available microprocessor, the Intel 4004, was introduced
in 1971. This 4-bit microprocessor, developed by Intel engineers Federico Faggin, Ted Hoff,
and Stan Mazor, could perform simple arithmetic and logic operations. It was originally
designed for use in calculators but soon found applications in various other fields.
Following the Intel 4004, Intel released the 8008 in 1972 and the more successful 8080 in
1974, which became the standard for early personal computers. The introduction of the 8-bit
microprocessor brought about more complex and powerful computing capabilities, paving the
way for future innovations. Other key developments during this period include the Zilog Z80
and the Motorola 6800, which contributed to the diversity and competitiveness in the
microprocessor market.
The late 1970s and early 1980s saw the advent of personal computers (PCs), with the
microprocessor at their core. The Apple II, released in 1977, utilized the MOS Technology
6502 microprocessor. In 1981, IBM introduced its first PC, powered by the Intel 8088
microprocessor, establishing a new era in personal computing. This period was marked by
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rapid advancements in processing power, leading to the development of 16-bit and 32-bit
microprocessors.
The evolution of microprocessors continued with the development of the Intel 80386 and
80486 in the late 1980s and early 1990s, introducing 32-bit processing. The Pentium series,
starting in 1993, brought 64-bit processing to the mainstream. Modern microprocessors, such
as the Intel Core series and AMD Ryzen, feature multiple cores, advanced instruction sets,
and integrated graphics, delivering unprecedented performance and efficiency.
A computer system comprises several key components that work together to perform
computational tasks. These components include the central processing unit (CPU), memory
(RAM), storage devices (hard drives, SSDs), input devices (keyboard, mouse), and output
devices (monitor, printer). The CPU, often referred to as the brain of the computer, executes
instructions and processes data.
The interaction between hardware and software is facilitated by the microprocessor. The
microprocessor executes machine code instructions provided by software, performing
arithmetic, logic, control, and input/output (I/O) operations. This interaction allows users to
perform complex tasks, from simple calculations to running sophisticated applications.
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and data manipulation tasks. These operations are fundamental to executing software
instructions and performing computations.
1.3.3 Communication
Modern microprocessors are equipped with power management features that help reduce
energy consumption. These features include dynamic voltage scaling, power gating, and
clock gating, which adjust the power usage of the microprocessor based on workload
demands. Efficient power management is crucial for prolonging battery life in portable
devices and reducing energy costs in data centers.
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1.4.3 Application Domains
Microprocessors are used in applications that require high processing power and versatility,
such as personal computers, servers, and workstations. Microcontrollers, on the other hand,
are used in embedded systems, such as automotive control systems, home appliances,
medical devices, and industrial automation.
Microcontrollers are generally more cost-effective and consume less power than
microprocessors. This makes them suitable for battery-operated and low-power applications.
Microprocessors, while more expensive and power-hungry, offer greater performance and
flexibility for complex computing tasks.
The Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) is the core component of a microprocessor responsible for
performing arithmetic and logic operations. It handles tasks such as addition, subtraction,
multiplication, division, and logical operations like AND, OR, NOT, and XOR.
The Control Unit (CU) directs the operation of the microprocessor by fetching, decoding, and
executing instructions. It controls the flow of data between the microprocessor, memory, and
peripherals, ensuring that instructions are executed in the correct sequence.
1.5.3 Registers
Registers are small, fast storage locations within the microprocessor used to hold data and
instructions temporarily. They provide quick access to frequently used values, improving the
efficiency of data processing and execution.
Cache memory is a small, high-speed memory located close to the microprocessor. It stores
frequently accessed data and instructions, reducing the time needed to fetch them from main
memory. Cache memory significantly enhances the performance of a microprocessor by
minimizing memory latency.
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1.5.5 Buses
CISC microprocessors are designed to execute complex instructions that can perform
multiple operations with a single command. They have a rich instruction set, which can
simplify programming but may result in longer execution times for certain tasks. Examples
include the Intel x86 series and the Motorola 68000 series.
RISC microprocessors utilize a simplified instruction set, with each instruction designed to
execute in a single clock cycle. This approach leads to faster execution times and improved
performance. RISC processors are used in various applications, from embedded systems to
high-performance computing. Examples include the ARM architecture and the IBM POWER
series.
DSPs are specialized microprocessors optimized for processing digital signals, such as audio,
video, and communication signals. They feature specialized instruction sets and architectures
tailored for high-speed mathematical computations, making them ideal for real-time
processing applications.
ASICs are custom-designed microprocessors created for specific applications or tasks. They
offer high performance and efficiency for their intended use cases but lack the flexibility of
general-purpose processors. ASICs are commonly used in consumer electronics,
telecommunications, and automotive systems.
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1.6.5 Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs)
FPGAs are integrated circuits that can be programmed and reconfigured after manufacturing.
They offer flexibility and adaptability, allowing developers to implement custom processing
architectures and algorithms. FPGAs are used in applications requiring rapid prototyping,
custom hardware solutions, and real-time processing.
Microprocessors are at the heart of personal computers and laptops, powering everything
from basic computing tasks to complex applications like video editing, gaming, and software
development. Their versatility and performance make them essential components in these
devices.
Microprocessors are widely used in embedded systems, which are specialized computing
systems designed for specific functions. Examples include automotive control systems,
industrial automation, home appliances, medical devices, and consumer electronics. These
systems benefit from the reliability and efficiency of microprocessors tailored to their specific
needs.
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1.7.5 Industrial Automation
Microprocessors are integral to modern healthcare and medical devices, including diagnostic
equipment, patient monitoring systems, and therapeutic devices. They enable accurate data
processing, real-time monitoring, and advanced diagnostics, improving patient care and
outcomes.
Automotive systems, such as engine control units (ECUs), advanced driver assistance
systems (ADAS), and infotainment systems, rely on microprocessors for efficient and reliable
operation. These processors enhance vehicle performance, safety, and user experience.
Microprocessors are found in a wide range of consumer electronics, including smart TVs,
gaming consoles, digital cameras, and wearable devices. They provide the processing power
needed to deliver rich multimedia experiences and advanced functionalities.
Summary
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Self-Assessment
1. Discuss the key milestones in the evolution of microprocessors from the Intel 4004 to
modern multi-core processors.
2. Explain the basic structure of a computer system and the role of the microprocessor
within it.
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Unit 2
Microprocessor Architecture
Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
Describe the roles and functions of the data and address buses.
The internal structure of the 8085 includes the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), registers,
control unit, and buses. The block diagram provides a visual representation of how these
components interact with each other. The control unit directs the operations of the
microprocessor, while the ALU performs arithmetic and logical operations.
74 instructions
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Five 8-bit registers (B, C, D, E, H, L)
The data bus is a bidirectional pathway that transfers data between the microprocessor,
memory, and peripheral devices. It consists of 8 lines, allowing the transfer of 8-bit data at a
time.
The address bus is a unidirectional pathway used by the microprocessor to address memory
locations. It consists of 16 lines, enabling the microprocessor to address up to 64KB of
memory.
The 8085 microprocessor uses multiplexed buses, meaning some lines are shared between the
address and data buses. This helps reduce the number of pins required, thus saving space and
cost in microprocessor design.
Special Purpose Registers: Accumulator (A), Program Counter (PC), and Stack
Pointer (SP).
2.3.2 Accumulator
The Accumulator (A) is an 8-bit register that stores the results of arithmetic and logical
operations. It is a critical part of the ALU.
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2.3.3 Flags
The 8085 microprocessor has five flags that indicate the status of the microprocessor after an
operation. These are:
The ALU is responsible for performing all arithmetic (addition, subtraction, etc.) and logical
(AND, OR, NOT, etc.) operations in the microprocessor. It receives input from the registers
and outputs results to the Accumulator.
The ALU works closely with the registers and the control unit. The control unit sends
instructions to the ALU, which then performs the required operations and stores the results in
the appropriate registers.
The clock signal synchronizes the operations of the microprocessor. The 8085 uses a single-
phase clock signal generated by an external oscillator. This clock signal controls the timing of
all operations within the microprocessor.
The timing diagram of the 8085 illustrates the relationship between the clock cycles and the
execution of instructions. It shows the sequence of operations and the state of the control
signals at each step.
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2.6 Instruction Decoding and Execution
The control unit is responsible for decoding instructions and generating control signals that
direct the operation of the ALU, registers, and other components. It ensures that each
instruction is executed correctly and in the right sequence.
Hardware Interrupts: External signals that interrupt the normal flow of execution,
such as INTR, RST7.5, RST6.5, RST5.5, and TRAP.
Software Interrupts: Instructions within the program that trigger an interrupt, such
as RST instructions.
When an interrupt occurs, the microprocessor suspends the current execution, saves the state,
and executes an interrupt service routine (ISR). After completing the ISR, the microprocessor
resumes normal execution from where it left off.
Interrupts have different priority levels, with TRAP being the highest. The microprocessor
can mask (disable) certain interrupts to prevent them from interrupting the current operation.
Summary
This chapter covered the architecture of the 8085 microprocessor, including its basic
components and functionality. We explored the roles of the data and address buses, the
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various registers and flags, and the ALU. Clock and timing operations were discussed in
detail, along with the process of instruction decoding and execution. Finally, we examined
interrupts and how they are handled by the 8085 microprocessor.
Self-Assessment
1. Describe the basic architecture of the 8085 microprocessor and its key features.
2. Explain the roles of the data bus and address bus in the 8085 microprocessor.
3. Discuss the purpose and functions of the various registers and flags in the 8085
microprocessor.
4. Describe the fetch-decode-execute cycle and the role of the control unit in instruction
execution.
5. Explain the different types of interrupts and the interrupt handling process in the 8085
microprocessor.
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Unit 3
Assembly Language Fundamentals
Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
Advantages:
Fast execution
Disadvantages:
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3.2.2 Instruction Format
Register addressing involves using the names of registers to specify the operands. For
example, ADD B adds the contents of register B to the Accumulator.
Immediate addressing involves specifying a constant value as an operand. For example, MVI
A, 05H moves the value 05H into the Accumulator.
Direct addressing involves specifying the memory address of the operand. For example, LDA
2000H loads the value from memory address 2000H into the Accumulator.
Indirect addressing involves using a register pair to specify the memory address of the
operand. For example, MOV A, M moves the value from the memory location pointed to by
the HL register pair into the Accumulator.
Load and store instructions transfer data between memory and registers. Examples include:
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3.4.2 Move Instructions
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CALL: Call subroutine
MVI A, 05H ; Load first number into Accumulator MVI B, 03H ; Load second number into
register B ADD B ; Add register B to Accumulator HLT ; Halt the program
MVI A, 08H ; Load first number into Accumulator MVI B, 03H ; Load second number into
register B SUB B ; Subtract register B from Accumulator HLT ; Halt the program
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Summary
This chapter introduced the fundamentals of assembly language, including its syntax and
structure. We explored the use of registers and memory addressing modes in assembly
language programming. Data movement, arithmetic, and logical instructions were discussed
in detail, along with control flow instructions that manage the execution flow. Simple
program examples were provided to illustrate the basic concepts and operations in assembly
language.
Self-Assessment
3. Describe the different types of memory addressing modes used in assembly language.
4. Write an assembly language program to add two numbers and explain each
instruction.
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Unit 4
Programming with 8085
Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
Discuss subroutine calls and returns and their usage in modular programming.
The programming model of the 8085 includes the Accumulator, general-purpose registers (B,
C, D, E, H, L), the Program Counter (PC), the Stack Pointer (SP), and the Flags register.
Understanding the role and function of each component is crucial for effective programming.
The 8085 supports several addressing modes, such as immediate, direct, indirect, register, and
implicit addressing. These modes determine how the operand of an instruction is specified
and accessed.
Data transfer instructions move data between registers, memory, and I/O ports. Examples
include MOV, MVI, LDA, and STA.
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4.2.3 Logical Instructions
Logical instructions perform bitwise operations. Examples include ANA, XRA, CPI, and
RLC.
Control instructions manage the flow of execution. Examples include JMP, CALL, RET,
and HLT.
Writing assembly language programs involves defining the sequence of instructions that the
microprocessor will execute. Programs should be well-structured and commented for clarity.
Programs are written in assembly language and then assembled using an assembler, which
converts the code into machine language. The machine code is then loaded into memory for
execution.
Once loaded into memory, the program is executed by the microprocessor, which fetches,
decodes, and executes each instruction in sequence.
The stack is a special area of memory used for temporary storage of data, return addresses,
and processor state information. It operates on a Last-In-First-Out (LIFO) principle.
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RET: Return from subroutine (pops return address from stack)
Subroutines are reusable code blocks that perform specific tasks. They help modularize
programs, making them easier to manage and understand.
The CALL instruction is used to invoke a subroutine, while the RET instruction returns
control to the calling program. Subroutines use the stack to store return addresses and local
variables.
Flags are status indicators that reflect the outcome of operations. They are used in conditional
branching to alter the flow of execution based on specific conditions.
Carry Flag (CY): Set if there is a carry out of the most significant bit.
Parity Flag (P): Set if the result has an even number of 1s.
Common errors in assembly language programming include syntax errors, logical errors, and
runtime errors. Identifying and correcting these errors is essential for successful program
execution.
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4.7.2 Debugging Tools
Debugging tools, such as simulators and debuggers, help identify and resolve issues in
programs. They provide features like breakpoints, step execution, and memory inspection.
Summary
In this chapter, we explored the programming model of the 8085 microprocessor, including
its internal architecture and addressing modes. We discussed the 8085 instruction set,
covering data transfer, arithmetic, logical, and control instructions. The process of writing,
assembling, and executing programs was explained, along with stack operations and
subroutine calls. The use of flags in programming and various debugging techniques were
also covered.
Self-Assessment
1. Describe the programming model of the 8085 microprocessor and its components.
2. Explain the different categories of the 8085 instruction set with examples.
3. Write a simple assembly language program for the 8085 and describe the steps to
assemble and execute it.
5. Explain the role of flags in conditional operations and provide examples of their usage
in assembly language programs.
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Unit 5
Advanced Programming Techniques
Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
Loops are essential constructs in programming that allow the execution of a block of code
multiple times. In assembly language, loops are implemented using jump instructions that
create a cycle of repeated execution.
Count-Controlled Loops: These loops run a specific number of times, often using a
counter that decrements or increments with each iteration.
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LOOP_START:
; Code to be repeated
Example:
MOV AL, 5
CMP AL, 5
JE EQUAL_LABEL
JMP END
EQUAL_LABEL:
; Code if equal
END:
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5.3 Table Processing
Table processing involves handling data stored in a tabular form, such as arrays. This is
useful for applications that require lookup operations.
Accessing elements in a table typically involves using pointers or index registers to traverse
the table.
Example:
TABLE_LOOP:
; Process element
INC SI
LOOP TABLE_LOOP
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Storing Strings: Using STOS instructions.
Example:
REP MOVSB
DEST_STRING DB 13 DUP(?)
Interrupts are signals that temporarily halt the current execution to handle specific events or
conditions. Interrupt-driven programming allows efficient handling of real-time events.
An ISR handles the specific task required when an interrupt occurs. After handling the task,
control is returned to the main program.
Example:
ISR_ROUTINE:
; Save state
PUSH AX
; Handle interrupt
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; Restore state
POP AX
IRET
Subroutines perform specific tasks and can be called from different parts of the program.
They use the CALL and RET instructions.
Example:
CALL SUBROUTINE
; Main program
JMP END
SUBROUTINE:
; Subroutine code
RET
END:
Time delays are used to create pauses in program execution. They are often used in timing
applications or to synchronize events.
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5.7.2 Implementing Time Delays
Delays can be implemented using loops that perform no operations other than decrementing a
counter.
Example:
DELAY_ROUTINE:
DELAY_LOOP:
LOOP DELAY_LOOP
RET
Summary
Self-Assessment
2. Write an assembly language program that uses conditional execution to compare two
numbers and branch accordingly.
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Unit 6
The 8086 Microprocessor
Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
The 8086 and 8088 microprocessors, developed by Intel, are 16-bit microprocessors with a
20-bit address bus, capable of addressing 1MB of memory. The main difference between the
two is the data bus width: 16-bit for the 8086 and 8-bit for the 8088.
Execution Unit (EU): Executes instructions and performs arithmetic and logical
operations.
Bus Interface Unit (BIU): Handles communication with memory and I/O.
Memory segmentation divides the memory into segments, each up to 64KB in size. The four
main segments are:
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Stack Segment (SS)
The 8086/8088 uses segment registers to point to the base address of each segment. These
include CS, DS, SS, and ES.
Data transfer instructions move data between registers, memory, and I/O ports. Examples
include MOV, PUSH, POP, and XCHG.
Logical instructions perform bitwise operations. Examples include AND, OR,XOR, and
NOT.
Control transfer instructions manage the flow of execution. Examples include JMP, CALL,
RET, and LOOP.
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Indirect addressing involves using a register to point to the memory address of the operand.
Assembler directives are instructions that guide the assembler in translating assembly
language into machine code. They do not generate executable code but help organize the
program.
6.5.3 Operators
6.6.1 Procedures
Procedures are reusable code blocks that perform specific tasks. They are defined using the
PROC and ENDP directives and called using the CALL instruction.
6.6.2 Macros
Macros are code snippets that are expanded inline during assembly. They are defined using
the MACRO and ENDM directives.
Example:
SUM_MACRO MACRO A, B
MOV AX, A
ADD AX, B
ENDM
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6.7 Interrupts and their Applications
Interrupts in the 8086/8088 include hardware interrupts, software interrupts, and exceptions.
The interrupt vector table is a predefined area of memory that holds the addresses of interrupt
service routines (ISRs).
ISRs handle specific tasks when an interrupt occurs and use the IRET instruction to return
control to the main program.
Summary
Self-Assessment
1. Describe the architecture of the 8086 microprocessor and its main components.
2. Explain the concept of memory segmentation and the role of segment registers.
3. List and describe the main types of instructions in the 8086 instruction set.
5. Explain the purpose of assembler directives and provide examples of their usage.
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Unit 7
Programming the 8086
Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
Setting up the programming environment involves installing and configuring tools such as
assemblers (e.g., MASM, TASM), linkers, and debuggers. These tools help write, assemble,
and debug assembly language programs.
Writing assembly language programs for the 8086 involves defining a sequence of
instructions to be executed by the microprocessor.
Example:
ADD AX, BX
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7.2.2 Assembling and Linking
The assembler converts assembly code into machine code, and the linker combines object
files into a single executable.
The assembler translates assembly language into object code. It performs syntax checking
and generates machine code instructions.
The linker combines multiple object files, resolves references, and creates an executable file.
7.4.1 Advantages
Combining high-level languages (e.g., C) with assembly language allows for high-level logic
with low-level hardware control.
7.4.2 Implementation
High-level language functions can call assembly language subroutines and vice versa.
int main() {
asm_function();
return 0;
7.5.1 Introduction
BIOS and DOS provide low-level system services that can be accessed using interrupts.
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7.5.2 BIOS Interrupts
BIOS interrupts provide hardware-level functions, such as disk I/O and keyboard input.
Example:
INT 10H
INT 21H
Example:
REP MOVSB
SOURCE_STRING DB 'Hello', 0
DEST_STRING DB 6 DUP(?)
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STRING_LENGTH EQU $-SOURCE_STRING
Array operations involve accessing and manipulating elements stored in contiguous memory
locations.
Example:
ARRAY_LOOP:
; Process element
ADD SI, 2
LOOP ARRAY_LOOP
ARRAY_START DW 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
ARRAY_LENGTH EQU 5
Assembly language allows direct control of hardware components, making it ideal for
developing low-level system software.
Port I/O instructions (IN, OUT) are used to read from and write to hardware ports.
Example:
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OUT DX, AL
Summary
In this chapter, we covered the setup of a programming environment for the 8086
microprocessor and the process of writing and executing assembly language programs. We
discussed the use of assembler and linker tools, mixing high-level and assembly language,
and developing BIOS and DOS programs. Handling strings and arrays in assembly language
was also covered, along with hardware manipulation and control techniques.
Self-Assessment
1. Describe the steps involved in setting up a programming environment for the 8086
microprocessor.
2. Write an assembly language program for the 8086 that performs arithmetic
operations.
4. Discuss the advantages and methods of mixing high-level and assembly language.
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Unit 8
Interfacing and Applications
Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
Address decoding is the process of determining the specific memory location to be accessed.
This can be done using techniques such as:
Full Address Decoding: Uses the entire address bus to generate a unique address.
Memory mapping involves assigning specific memory addresses to different memory and I/O
devices. This ensures that each device is uniquely addressable.
Example:
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I/O addressing assigns specific addresses to peripheral devices. The 8086 microprocessor can
access I/O ports using the IN and OUT instructions.
Example:
OUT DX, AL
Data transfer between microprocessor and peripheral devices can be done using:
Direct Memory Access (DMA): Allows peripherals to directly transfer data to/from
memory without CPU involvement.
Example:
OUT 0x378, AL
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8.4.2 LCD Interfacing
LCDs are interfaced using control and data lines to send commands and data.
Example:
OUT DX, AL
Example:
Example:
Example:
OUT DAC_PORT, AL
Sensors can be interfaced to read environmental data and convert it into electrical signals for
processing.
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Stepper motors are controlled by sending pulses to the motor windings.
Example:
OUT MOTOR_PORT, AL
Actuators convert electrical signals into physical movements and can be controlled using
appropriate interfaces.
Designing embedded systems involves integrating hardware and software to perform specific
functions.
Development tools for embedded systems include compilers, debuggers, and integrated
development environments (IDEs).
Summary
In this chapter, we explored interfacing techniques for memory and peripheral devices with
microprocessors. We discussed I/O port addressing and data transfer methods, and provided
examples of interfacing LEDs, LCDs, and keyboards. We also covered the interfacing of
analogdevices using ADC and DAC, and controlling stepper motors and actuators. Finally,
we examined the design and development of embedded systems.
Self-Assessment
1. Explain the concept of address decoding and its importance in memory interfacing.
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Unit 9
Advanced Microprocessors and Future Trends
Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
ARM (Advanced RISC Machine) is a family of RISC-based microprocessors known for their
power efficiency and performance. ARM processors are widely used in mobile devices,
embedded systems, and IoT applications.
RISC architectures use a small, highly optimized set of instructions that can be executed in a
single clock cycle. This leads to simpler hardware and faster execution.
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CISC architectures have a larger set of instructions, some of which can perform complex
operations. This allows for more functionality with fewer lines of code but can result in more
complex hardware.
9.2.3 Comparison
Complexity: CISC can reduce software complexity but at the cost of more complex
hardware.
Multi-core processors contain multiple processing units (cores) on a single chip. Each core
can execute instructions independently, allowing for parallel processing and improved
performance.
9.3.2 Benefits
Energy Efficiency: Multiple cores running at lower frequencies can be more energy-
efficient than a single high-frequency core.
9.4.1 Role in AI
Microprocessors are crucial in AI applications for tasks such as machine learning, data
processing, and neural network inference. Specialized AI accelerators, such as GPUs and
TPUs, enhance these capabilities.
Microprocessors enable IoT devices to collect, process, and transmit data. They are integral
to smart homes, industrial IoT, and wearable technology.
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9.5.1 Power Efficiency
Modern microprocessors focus on power efficiency to reduce energy consumption and heat
generation. Techniques such as dynamic voltage scaling and power gating are employed to
achieve this.
Neuromorphic Computing: Mimics the neural structure of the human brain for
advanced AI applications.
Flexible Electronics: Enables new form factors and applications in wearable and
implantable devices.
9.6.2 Trends
The ARM Cortex-A series is widely used in smartphones and tablets. These processors
balance performance and power efficiency, making them ideal for mobile applications.
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Summary
In this chapter, we explored advanced microprocessor architectures such as ARM and MIPS,
and compared RISC and CISC architectures. We discussed the benefits of multi-core
processors and the role of microprocessors in AI and IoT applications. Power efficiency and
performance scaling were examined, along with future trends in microprocessor design.
Finally, we reviewed case studies and current research to understand the direction of
microprocessor technology.
Self-Assessment
1. Describe the key features of ARM and MIPS architectures and their applications.
3. Explain the benefits of multi-core processors and how they improve performance.
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